Budget-friendly Father’s Day gift ideas for car-loving dads

The countdown is on until that first Sunday in September when dads, or the father figures in our lives are officially celebrated.

While price comparison site, Finder predicts the average amount spent on Father’s Day gifts to be $109, the cost-of-living crisis has more of us are tightening our purse strings, meaning cheaper alternatives may be on the table.

Choosing a gift that will bring a smile to Dad’s dial while also keeping spending in check can be challenging, so here are seven ideas to get your engines started.

Automotive accessories are not only practical, but they can also be surprisingly affordable, meaning you may be able to pick up one, or even a couple of gadgets Dad will love and be able to use.

Chris Jager, shopping expert at Finder says some potential options include a phone mount: “a budget-friendly option that adds convenience to his daily commute.”

Car vacuums are also a tidy buy, along with digital tyre pressure gauges, magnetic sunglasses holder or even a foldable food tray, each of which can be picked up for under $30.

However, on the hunt for a bargain, beware of cheap marketplaces with overseas sellers Jager says.

“While they have the best prices, the quality of products can be extremely low."

A thoughtful option for a sports fan dad could be to personalise the gear knob with his favourite sport’s team logo.

These NFL billiard ball designs can be ordered via Etsy - but at around $85 - it is a bit pricier.

If this price point is too high, before you log out of Etsy, there are also some super cool bottle openers and tool-shaped metal and leather key rings available. These can be engraved with a message or simply your dad’s name - and from $4.00 – this is within most people’s spending capabilities.

This one won't cost you a cent - just time and effort – yes, it’s the family DIY car wash.

Whether it is a surprise wash and clean or given via a homemade gift card – this gift is helpful and as long as you’ve already got the needed supplies - wheel and tyre cleaner, microfibre cloths, wheel brush, polish etc – it won't cost you a cent.

It’s also a gift that the whole family can help with.

While the sky could be your limit with recycling or upcycling, one car-friendly idea for Father’s Day can be to grab an old car air freshener that’s lost its fragrance and spray it with dad’s favourite scent.

With one squirt or two, you’ve got a brand-new air freshener that can be hung back up and enjoyed for weeks to come.

If your dad loves nothing more than learning more about cars, then have a look at what’s on in your area.

Keep an eye out for any car shows, exhibitions, or even a museum that could be visited as a fun day trip together, or as something to do in the coming weeks or months. You’ll be surprised at how much is out there!

Perfect for families with younger kids - painting, sculpting, even photography, or cake making - see if you can create, or capture your dad’s favourite car in art.

Regardless of the result, Dad will no doubt appreciate the thought and effort that went into it. It could even be a fun activity to do on Father’s Day together.

What’s the perfect gift idea for dads who are fans of weekend drives, or day road trips? Joining them on one!  

Sometimes, spending quality time with your dad can be all he really wants, especially if you don’t hang out a lot.

So, grab some snacks for the road, pop on a personalised playlist your dad will love and hit the road!

Related: Five Father's Day experiences and event gift ideas for dads who love cars

Related: Five gifts for dads that are handy in the garage

Related: 11 car museums you can visit from the comfort of your own home